In the city of Río Gallegos, province of Santa Cruz, an unusual event shook the community when the Fauna Directorate of the Provincial Agrarian Council (CAP) acted upon an anonymous complaint. The alert indicated the presence of a captive guanaco calf, put up for sale in a buy and sell group on social networks.
The rescue operation
The complaint prompted the swift intervention of a CAP team, accompanied by police personnel, who carried out an operation at a home in the Municipal neighborhood, in the heart of the provincial capital.
Upon arriving at the residence, the agents confirmed the existence of a chulenguito —the name given to a guanaco calf— tied to a fence in the yard without access to water. The conditions evidenced a completely inadequate environment for its welfare and development.
Prohibited commercialization of wildlife
According to official sources, the responsible family kept the animal in captivity with the intention of selling it, a practice expressly prohibited by law as it involves native wildlife.
Authorities promptly removed the specimen and issued the corresponding infraction report, despite the initial resistance of the homeowner. The case will proceed through the administrative and legal course provided for infractions of prohibited capture, possession, and commercialization of native species.
Veterinary care and recovery
The rescued chulenguito was taken to CAP facilities to receive professional veterinary care and appropriate attention. The animal showed signs of stress and minor limb injuries, consistent with mistreatment and improper handling.
The time tied up and the lack of minimum welfare conditions impacted its physical and emotional integrity. As with other specimens of native species, it will require specialized professional follow-up to ensure its recovery.
Institutional message and legal framework
From the CAP, the message was clear:
“The illegal handling of wild animals is punishable and poses an extra risk to the survival of the specimens.”
The operation also had the collaboration of the Ministry of Security of Santa Cruz. The police support ensured the protection of the acting personnel and compliance with current regulations on wildlife protection.
Complaints and citizen participation
The Provincial Agrarian Council reminded that reports of mistreatment, possession, or illegal trafficking of species can be made to the number 2966-279178, a direct channel for reporting cases.
Every message received can make the difference between the preservation of a specimen or its entry into the illegal circuit, they pointed out from the organization.
The rescue of the guanaco calf in Río Gallegos highlights the importance of citizen reporting and the swift action of authorities to curb the illegal trafficking of native wildlife.
The intervention of the CAP and the police support not only saved the life of an animal at risk but also reaffirmed the institutional commitment to the conservation of Patagonian biodiversity and compliance with the legislation that protects native species.
